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Message: <blockquote data-quote="saraprobe" data-source="post: 758331" data-attributes="member: 13914"><img src="http://i14.tinypic.com/678tvmv.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" />MAS announced the commencement of construction on its model eco manufacturing plant to produce lingerie exclusively for Marks & Spencer (M&S) at MAS Fabric Park, Thulhiriya.  Mr. Dian Gomes, CEO of MAS Intimates, accompanied by Mr. Paschal Little, Head of Technology, Lingerie at M&S, laid the foundation stone on 16th August 2007 in a ground breaking ceremony to mark start of construction on the new facility.Earlier this year, MAS announced its commitment to support UK retailer M&S in the implementation of its Plan-A initiative, which will set new standards in ethical trading and help its customers and employees choose a healthier lifestyle.Speaking on the initiative MAS Chairman Deshamanya Mahesh Amalean expressed his views on the project being “an excellent way to kick-off MAS’ environmental initiatives.”The Group is working on improving energy efficiency of all facilities and will focus on the environmental impact of operations in the next few years.Mr. Paschal Little, Head of Technology, Lingerie, Marks & Spencer commented, saying: “Just as we are aiming to reduce the carbon footprint and waste from our operations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, we are also keen to work with our suppliers to reduce our impact in the countries in which we source our goods. The MAS factory is an exciting development as it will set a new benchmark for sustainable garment manufacturing, whilst delivering stylish quality products our customers want. We look forward to working with the MAS team on the development of the factory over the coming months.”The factory will be a 110,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility that will manufacture bras exclusively for M&S.M&S will support the development of the factory by providing advice on sustainable construction through its experience in store development and the creation of its ‘green’ stores in the UK. It will also provide sponsorship for the architects design costs .The project design philosophy is based on respect for the site, the user and the environment, while the building draws inspiration from traditional Sri Lankan architecture, building on stilts, with inner courtyards and extensive greenery around the structures giving thermal comfort, minimizing disturbance of land contours and drainage patterns.The facility will be surrounded by green-belts with introduction of native or adapted flora and endemic plants, as part of a comprehensive bio-diversity plan. Incentives will also be offered to management and employees to promote the use of bicycles and reduce fuel consumption.Solar-electric, solar-thermal, wind and methane through sewerage treatment will be used as renewable energy sources on site, while energy saving equipment including LED based task lights will be used to minimize energy consumption. Rainwater harvesting is also planned for the full roof area.Ecologically friendly construction material including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood and cement-stabilized-earth bricks will be used for construction.Training and awareness initiatives on environmental sustainability will be provided for employees and the community. It will include aspects such as educating employees on the need to live in harmony with the environment and make economically sustainable decisions.<img src="http://i9.tinypic.com/4mjh75w.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" />The factory is the first to be specifically designed for MAS Operating System (MOS), the lean manufacturing methodology developed by MAS for the apparel industry based on the principles of the Toyota Production System, making it the first lean and green apparel manufacturing facility.It will be operational by March 2008 with a combined workforce of 550, and is expected to operate at full capacity with 1300 people in employment by 2010.It is also expected to deliver more than 50% and 40% savings on water and electricity respectively in comparison to a standard factory.The project will be independently certified by the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System.A team from the University of Moratuwa was engaged in the conceptualization and design of the project.MAS Intimates Managing Director, Dian Gomes, said: “We are proud to associate ourselves with M&S’ Plan A, which is one of the most far-sighted and bold corporate initiatives in the present age.”“With MAS’ alignment to Plan A, we will bring in our skills and innovation to address the environmental challenges facing Sri Lanka and the world.”“This initiative is proof of the shared values and outlook, where interests of both parties are closely aligned.”In 2003 MAS piloted the Marks & Start Programme for the Asian region with M&S, giving disabled people (mostly women) the opportunity to be integrated into a mainstream working environment, and help them contribute towards the economic stability of their families.The MAS Team looks forward to play a similar leadership role in M&S’ Plan A initiative through this iconic eco manufacturing plant.<a href="http://www.masholdings.com/news/news.htm" target="_blank">MAS Holdings</a></blockquote>

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